Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected
The Coorparoo Chronicle
Autumn Celebrating community, capturing stories and keeping connected.
Contents
A message from Debbie Community Happenings A message from the Lifestyle Team Autumn Highlights A message from the Clinical Nursing Team
3 4 - 5 6 7
8 9
Quality Corner Meet the Team
10 - 11 12 - 13 14 15 - 16 17 - 18
Chefs Corner Noticeboard Games Corner Games Corner answers
Message from Debbie
It’s hard to believe how quickly time has flown. On 22 July 2025, Coorparoo Aged Care will proudly celebrate 6 years of providing quality care to our residents and supporting their
families. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of welcoming many wonderful residents into our home, and we’ve been fortunate to build strong connections with their families. It’s these relationships that truly make our community special. Throughout this time, we’ve navigated numerous legislative changes—and with more expected in November, we’re once again preparing through ongoing education and updated documentation to ensure we continue delivering the highest standard of care. We’re also proud to share some stats which contribute to keeping our residents safe: 98% of our residents have received their Influenza vaccination 95% are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccinations These figures are well above the industry average, reflecting our commitment to health and safety. In addition, we recently welcomed the Government’s Resident Experience team, who conducted a survey of our residents. We received a 4 out of 5 star rating in this area, which lifted our overall service rating to a 5-star level—a result we’re incredibly proud of. Thank you to our dedicated team, our amazing residents, and their families for being part of the Coorparoo Aged Care journey. Here’s to many more milestones ahead! Regards
Debbie McPhee Facility Manager
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Community Happenings Autumn
Autumn at Coorparoo Aged Care has been full of life, laughter and meaningful connection. Across March, April and May, our community came together to celebrate, create, reflect and enjoy each other's company. Whether we were welcoming talented visitors, getting hands on with Easter crafts, sharing in spiritual moments, or simply having fun at bingo, the spirit of togetherness has been felt in every corner of our home. It’s this vibrant sense of community; where everyone is encouraged to join in, be heard and belong that makes Coorparoo such a special place to live and work.
Music, Visitors and Moments of Reflection This autumn, we were fortunate to welcome the talented musicians from The Clayfield Seventh Day Adventist Reform Movement and The Korean SDA RM. Their beautiful songs, violin solos and verses from The Bible made for a meaningful and uplifting Saturday. We also came together to honour ANZAC Day — a time of remembrance, gratitude and pride. Our commemorative service was made even more special by the involvement of our residents and a stirring rendition of the New Zealand National Anthem, beautifully performed by Anna.
Community Happenings Autumn
Creativity and Connection As Easter approached, our home was filled with colour and creativity. Residents enjoyed Easter-themed craft, including beautiful stained-glass bunnies, a fun “Build a Word” whiteboard game, and an engaging brain fitness session that had everyone thinking. It was a joy to see so much participation and laughter. Our regular Communion services continued to provide quiet moments for reflection and connection.
Celebrations and Competitions We kicked off the Mother's Day celebrations early with a raffle, and a warm congratulations goes to Margaret for winning the lovely Mother’s Day hamper. Our monthly bingo winners were also celebrated this season, with lots of fun and competitive spirit in the room. It’s always a highlight to see residents engaging with one another and enjoying these shared moments.
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Autumn Highlights
We’ve captured the heart of our community in a special Autumn highlights reel, a collection of moments that show just how lively and connected life at Coorparoo Aged Care truly is. From joyful celebrations and creative activities to quiet reflections and shared laughter, the reel brings together the many experiences that made this season so memorable. We invite you to take a look and see the warmth, spirit and smiles that filled our home throughout March, April and May.
Message from the Lifestyle Team
Celebrating Six Wonderful Years! As we approach our 6th birthday, exciting events are underway to mark this special milestone. We’re delighted to announce a celebratory High
Tea, featuring a selection of delicious treats specially chosen by our residents. The Lifestyle Team is looking forward to making the day memorable for everyone—including those who prefer the comfort of their rooms. Later in the week, the celebrations will continue with a live concert, adding even more joy to our already vibrant Lifestyle program. Our indoor bowls carpet mat, proudly won during last year’s Olympic events, is proving to be a fantastic addition. It’s heartening to see residents—some trying bowls for the first time— learning the game and enjoying the friendly competition. Bingo remains a firm favourite and continues to draw the biggest crowd. However, there’s a new contender in town! The Word-in-a- Word game has sparked a wave of enthusiasm, leading to requests for even more word games. We're thrilled to now offer a variety of options including Hangman, Boggle, Scattergories, Word Circle, and more—all recently added to the program. We’re committed to keeping our activities engaging and inclusive. The Lifestyle Team is always open to feedback and new ideas to ensure everyone has something to look forward to each day. For those who prefer not to attend scheduled activities, our dedicated Allied Health staff run twice-daily exercise groups—supporting strength, balance, and general wellbeing, with strong participation. They also assist the Lifestyle team with 1-1 visits for those not able or wishing to leave their rooms. Here’s to continued connection, fun, and community spirit as we celebrate this exciting chapter together! 7
Message from Clinical Nursing Team
We are pleased to be part of this new quarterly newsletter and welcome the opportunity to connect with residents, families, and the wider community. It is our privilege to care for and support every resident entrusted to us. We are proud of our strong, stable, and dedicated nursing team. We work collaboratively with shared
goals and a commitment to delivering the highest quality care. Each team member brings unique strengths and skills, and we value the mutual respect and teamwork that drive positive, resident-focused outcomes. Clinical Focus: Antimicrobial Stewardship This quarter, we’d like to highlight antimicrobial stewardship - the responsible use of antibiotics in treating or preventing infections. Many bacteria naturally live on our bodies without causing harm. However, when antibiotics are used too often or inappropriately, these bacteria can develop resistance. These resistant strains, often referred to as ‘superbugs’ , are much harder to treat and may eventually stop responding to any antibiotics. It’s important to know that not all infections require antibiotics — some will resolve on their own. Misuse of antibiotics today can reduce their effectiveness tomorrow. We encourage residents and families to speak with our nurses or doctors if you have any questions about infections or antibiotics. For further information, we also have printed "Do You Need Antibiotics?" leaflets available in the facility’s entrance area. ( Source: Department of Health materials )
Quality Corner Upcoming Changes to the Aged Care Standards; What you need to know – and what it means for you. The government is introducing new Aged Care Quality Standards as part of a refreshed Aged Care Act . These changes are all about making sure that aged care services continue to provide safe , high-quality and respectful care - with your dignity , choices and well-being front and centre.
What’s changing? The updated Quality Standards go into more detail about what good care looks like. They’re designed to make sure you stay at the heart of your care, with stronger guidance for things like clinical care, food and nutrition, and making sure your personal preferences are always respected. Here are the seven updated standards : 1. The person focuses on your rights, dignity, choices and individuality across all the standards 2. The organisation how providers support and deliver care 3. Care and services your care is focussed on who you are and what’s important to you 4. The environment you feel safe, comfortable & supported where you live 5. Clinical care you get the clinical care that is right for you 6. Food and nutrition prioritising enjoyable, tasty and nourishing meals 7. The residential community fostering connection, inclusion and community life The new Aged Care Act brings with it a clear Statement of Rights , setting out the rights everyone has when accessing aged care services. These rights are designed to make sure your care is respectful, fair & centred around you. The Statement of Rights include the right to: independence, autonomy, empowerment and freedom of choice equitable access quality and safe funded aged care services respect for privacy and information person-centred communication & ability to raise issues without reprisal advocates, significant persons and social connections. We’ll continue to share more updates as the changes get closer, and of course, we’re here to answer any questions or talk through what this means for you. 9
Meet the Team Raj From Nepal to Nursing: A Journey of Purpose at Coorparoo Aged Care
My journey with Coorparoo Aged Care began in October 2020, shortly after I arrived in Australia from Nepal. "Leaving home isn’t easy—but sometimes, being far from where you began is exactly where you’ll discover who you’re meant to become." At the time, I was studying for a Master’s degree in Business and Accounting, and I joined the team as a Food Service Assistant. It was my first role in aged care, and while it began as a way to support myself through my studies, it quickly became something far more meaningful. " Your first job in aged care may not be your final destination— but it could be the first step toward your true calling, just as it was for me. " Working in the kitchen alongside our then Head Chef, Dave, I learned the importance
of quality, consistency, and care in everything we do. I saw firsthand how something as simple as a warm meal could bring joy, comfort, and dignity to our residents. Those early years were not only a time of learning but also of reflection— and slowly, I found my interests shifting. Karl, my boss after Dave in the kitchen, showed how team work makes things easy. Inspired by the compassion, professionalism, and dedication I observed in the clinical team, I felt drawn to nursing. With the encouragement of my colleagues and leaders, I made the life-changing decision to change career paths and pursue nursing degree.
Meet the Team Raj
Her guidance continues to shape the nurse I am becoming. To our Facility Manager, Debbie—thank you for believing in me and creating an environment where growth is nurtured and ambition is supported. And to Karl and Dave, thank you for the foundation, the lessons, and the sense of pride you instilled in me during my time in the kitchen. Coorparoo Aged Care has been more than a workplace—it has been a place of transformation. It’s where I discovered my passion, found my purpose, and grew into a role that allows me to give back in the most meaningful way. I look forward to continuing this journey, providing compassionate, person- centred care to those who need it most. " Let your work be more than just a job. In aged care, every small action can bring comfort, dignity, and joy to someone’s life—and that is a privilege. "
It was not easy to leave a field I had originally come to Australia to study, but deep down, I knew I had found my calling. To my fellow juniors - " Don’t be afraid to change paths. Following your heart, even in a foreign land, can lead you to a career filled with purpose and pride. " After starting my role as Personal care assistant, I began working more closely with residents and experienced the emotional and human side of aged care in a new light. These experiences solidified my decision, and I enrolled in nursing studies soon after. In August last year, I proudly graduated as a Registered Nurse—and it felt only right to return to Coorparoo Aged Care in this new capacity. I’m deeply grateful to Clinical Care Coordinator Leonie and the clinical team, whose leadership and support have helped me transition into the RN role with confidence and clarity.
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Chef's Corner Karl
One of the highlights of our community is our resident-driven menu. Every two months, we hold Food Focus meetings where residents come
together to share suggestions and ideas on how we can improve our meals. These discussions are then brought to our monthly Resident Meetings for final decisions and input from other residents. Additionally, our menu is reviewed by a qualified dietitian to ensure it meets the nutritional needs of all our residents. Several months ago, a great idea was proposed at one of our Food Focus meetings — a weekly “Resident Choice” meal to give residents more input and variety. Everyone in attendance agreed that this would be a welcome addition. We decided to introduce themed international menus, starting with a Chinese option, followed by other exciting themes including Greek, Italian, Indian, Thai, Mexican, and Vietnamese cuisines. The 4th Wednesday of each month was chosen as the day for these special meals. Our most recent theme, Greek Night, was held last week and was a great success! Residents especially enjoyed the flavourful soup and the delicious lemon potatoes. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive. In addition, our Fish and Chips Day, organized by the Lifestyle team on the 3rd Tuesday of each month, continues to be a favourite among residents who choose to attend, as are the trips to the Village Café for lunch. We’re thrilled to see such enthusiasm and engagement from everyone and look forward to many more delightful dining experiences together! As always, I am always happy to speak to any resident or family member if there is any way we can improve the food experience here at Coorparoo Aged Care.
Chef's Corner Shepherd's Pie
INGREDIENTS 750g potatoes, peeled, cut into quarters 50g butter 80m milk 1 tbsp olive oil
1 brown onion, finely chopped 1 stalk celery, finely chopped ½ large carrot, finely chopped 400g can chopped tomatoes 1 tbsp tomato paste 500g lamb mince 250ml chicken stock 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Salt and pepper METHOD:
Place potatoes in a large saucepan of cold, salted water and bring to the boil. Allow to boil until very soft (about 20 mins). Drain, mash well then stir through butter and milk. Season to taste. Heat oil in a large, ovenproof saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, celery and carrot and fry until soft. Add mince, using a fork to break up any lumps, and fry until browned. Drain off (and discard) any excess fat. Add canned tomatoes, tomato paste and chicken stock, bring to the boil then reduce heat and simmer 15-20 mins until sauce has reduced. Stir through Worcestershire sauce and season to taste. Spread potato mash mixture over the top of the mince then transfer to the oven and bake for 30 mins until mash is golden on top. Serve immediately. Or, allow to cool, portion into freezer safe containers, label it with the contents and date. Consume within 3 months.
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Noticeboard
In Memoriam We offer our sincere condolences to the families and friends of our late residents. Every cherished member of our community who leaves us, is sadly missed and fondly remembered. Library Service A very warm welcome to our new residents
We have a mobile library service that picks up and delivers library books to residents’ rooms. We also have our fully stocked library. If you would like to use this service, please speak to one of our friendly team. Monthly Zumba – Move to Your Own Beat! Join us each month for a fun and gentle Zumba session designed especially for our residents. It’s a great way to get moving, enjoy the music, and have a laugh together. Don’t forget we have upcoming Ekka Celebrations and a “day at the show” for all residents. Families welcome.
Betty S June F
Daphne W Barbara B Jill C Irene C Christine F
Mary C Kathi P
Daily Health and fitness Join us each daily for a dose of gentle exercise and seated games.
We are here for you If you’d like more information on the above services, please contact the Lifestyle team: caclifestyle@coorparooagedcare.com.au
Games corner
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Games corner
Games corner answer 1
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Games corner answer 2
Stay tuned for Winter
Thank you We would like to issue a heartfelt thank you to relatives and volunteers who support us day in and day out. You make such a difference and we very much appreciate your time and energy. Can you contribute? Contributions to our newsletter are encouraged and appreciated. Articles, photos, reports on community outings, staff news, trivia, poems and amusing stories relating to residents and staff are most welcome. Please hand in your submission to reception.
388 Cavendish Road, Coorparoo, QLD 4151 07 3153 6000 coorparooagedcare.com.au
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